Spousal support / alimony provides financial backing to one spouse following divorce.
You must ask for alimony prior to filing for your divorce. Even though divorce ends marriages, this does not necessarily mean spouses become devoid of obligations to one another. In many relationships, one spouse earns more money than the other, and because of this earning discrepancy, the less-well-off partner often receives spousal support as part of the settlement. The spouse who earns more money is considered the supporting spouse, and the spouse who earns less is considered the dependant spouse. Otherwise referred to as alimony, spousal support can help that spouse move forward with their life with greater financial security.
Spousal support is designed to recognize one partner’s contribution to the marriage while also helping him or her move towards financial independence. In many cases, those who receive alimony use the funds to continue their education and training. When awarding spousal support, the court considers many factors, including:
- The duration of the marriage
- Each partner’s earning capacity
- Each partner’s contribution to the household and career
- The physical health of the proposed recipient
- Adultery of either party
Spousal support can either be paid to a former spouse in a lump sum or on a temporary or permanent basis. While deciding the duration of alimony payments, the court considers the current and future circumstances of both partners.
If you believe spousal support is an issue that needs to be discussed during your divorce in Charlotte, North Carolina, at GPS Law Group, we can represent your best interests, whether you decide to mediate your divorce or move forward with litigation. Our firm wants what is best for you throughout your post-divorce life, and we will negotiate spousal support based on your needs and circumstances. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
At GPS Law Group, we offer legal services related to spousal support to those in Charlotte, Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill, Pineville, Concord, Harrisburg, and Kannapolis, North Carolina.